Soft Infant Carriers

JULY 16, 2008

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) staff is participating in voluntary standard activities related to soft infant carriers. CPSC staff is currently working with the ASTM F15.21 Infant Carriers, Bouncers and Baby Swings Subcommittee to develop performance requirements for ASTM F 2236-03 Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Soft Infant Carriers. A soft infant carrier is a product, normally of sewn fabric construction, which is designed to contain a full-term infant, generally in an upright position, in close proximity to the caregiver. This specification does not cover products referred to as "slings."

In 2006, there were an estimated 14,200 carrier-related injuries (excluding motor vehicle incidents) treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments. This figure includes infant car seats/carriers as well as frame and soft carriers (including slings). CPSC staff also has reports of 17 carrier-related deaths involving infants that occurred from 2002-2004.

CPSC staff is working with ASTM to address issues related to soft carrier safety as they arise.

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